Rafael Nadal has confirmed he will be back to defend his Mubadala World Tennis Championship title in Abu Dhabi, where he’ll be vying for a fifth trophy in Abu Dhabi.

The world No. 2 will be joined by former runner-up and world No. 10 Milos Raonic, and MWTC debutant Dominic Thiem, the world No. 8.

This year’s edition of the three-day blockbuster exhibition will take place from December 28-30, 2017, with three more players yet to be announced.

In anticipation of his return to the 10th edition of the MWTC, Rafael Nadal said: “I am extremely excited to play in the Mubadala World Tennis Championship again later this year.

“This tournament is very important to me as it is not only the 10th edition and my ninth appearance, but I will also be defending my title. I am very proud to be part of this great event and I know it will be a really enjoyable and challenging tournament as always.”

Raonic, a Wimbledon finalist in 2016, will be coming back to Abu Dhabi for a third straight year. The Canadian power-server was runner-up in the UAE capital in 2015 and claimed fourth place in last season’s edition.

To celebrate the landmark 10th edition, organisers FLASH Entertainment, in partnership with Mubadala, are releasing tickets starting from just Dh50. Those who purchase a ticket in the first 10 days will be entered into daily draws to win unbelievable prizes including signed merchandise from this year’s and past MWTC players, star player clinic spots and the chance to meet their favourite player and carry his bag out alongside them on court.

John Lickrish, CEO of FLASH Entertainment, who launched the tournament in 2008 said: “To be celebrating the 10th landmark edition of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship this year is something FLASH are truly proud of.

“We bring a tournament format that is completely unique to the UAE, where tennis fans can enjoy watching the world’s best players battle it out, and families and friends can come together for a great day out to lap up the excitement both on and off-court.

“Over the past nine editions we have seen 125,000 fans come and join us in Abu Dhabi, which goes to show its popularity here. With Nadal, Raonic and Thiem already lined up, this year will certainly be another thrilling event.”

Tickets to the Championship go on sale to the general public at 12pm on Monday, August 14, at www.ticketmaster.ae and all Virgin Megastores across the UAE. For more information, visit: www.mubadalawtc.com